The XXI World Congress of the International Union of Prehistoric and Protohistoric Sciences (UISPP) concluded in Poznań, Poland, on 4 September 2026, following five days of scholarly exchange under the theme ‘Archaeology in Motion: Past Lessons, Future Responsibilities’. Hosted by Adam Mickiewicz University, the Congress marked the first occasion on which the UISPP World Congress has been held in Poland.
More than 700 researchers from across the world gathered to present new research, share methods and perspectives, and address major questions facing prehistoric and protohistoric archaeology. The programme brought together scientific sessions, plenary lectures, UISPP Commission meetings, and field excursions, offering opportunities for both focused discussion and wider international collaboration.
The Congress reaffirmed the importance of UISPP as a forum for sustained international dialogue across the many fields of prehistoric and protohistoric research. Its diverse programme reflected the breadth of current archaeological work, from material culture and technological practices to environmental change, heritage protection, and new approaches to interpreting the human past.
The theme encouraged participants to consider not only the lessons offered by archaeology, but also the responsibilities of researchers towards cultural heritage, public engagement, and future generations.
UISPP warmly thanks Adam Mickiewicz University, its Faculty of Archaeology, the local organizing team, session organizers, volunteers, partners, and all participants whose work made the Poznań Congress possible. Their commitment ensured a welcoming and intellectually stimulating meeting for the international archaeological community.
The Union also extends its gratitude to every participant who contributed papers, posters, discussions and meetings. The conversations initiated in Poznań will continue through the work of UISPP’s Scientific Commissions and its worldwide network of members.